The Name and Fame of Jesus

Jesus’ Trial and Peters’ Denial (Part 4)

Lead/Founding Pastor: Ryan Rice 

Thursday, March 7th, 2024

Sunday, March 14th, 2024

THE IMPETUOUS PETER 

1. His Calling 
2. His Friends and Family 
3. His Accomplishments 

THE PITFALLS OF PETER 

1. Pride – Peter boasted in the Upper Room.
2. Apathy – Peter couldn't stay awake in the Garden.  
3. Fear – Peter buckles under pressure when Jesus is arrested. 

THE PASSAGE 

John 18:12-27, ESV

• The Arrest (vs.12-14)
• The Denial (vs.15-18)
• The Trial (vs.19-24)
• The Denial Again (vs.25-27)

LESSONS LEARNED FROM PETER'S LIFE 

1. Everyone sins.
2. Jesus died for sins.
3. Jesus changes everything. 

TALK IT OVER

Ice Breaker - Share a funny or memorable experience while fishing or engaging in outdoor activities.

1. Reflect on Peter's transition from a fisherman to an Apostle. How does this illustrate God's ability to transform ordinary individuals into vessels for His kingdom's purposes? (Matthew 4:18-20)

2. Take a minute to read John 18:12-27 and review the Sermon Outline. What stood out to you and why?

3. Explore Peter's struggles with pride, apathy, and fear (Matthew 26:33-35, 26:40, 26:43, 26:51-52; Luke 22:54-62). How do these less obvious sins often manifest in our lives, and what steps can we take to overcome them?

4. Share a personal story of when pride, apathy, or fear affected your faith journey. How did you navigate these challenges, and what lessons did you learn?

5. Reflect on Peter's denial of Jesus in the Garden. How do you think fear influenced Peter's actions, and what can we learn from Jesus' response to Peter's denial? (John 18:12-27)

6. Discuss the importance of repentance and restoration in Peter's story. How does Jesus' interaction with Peter after His resurrection demonstrate the power of forgiveness and second chances in our lives? (John 21:15-19)

7. Consider the encouragement Jesus gives to Peter regarding his love and calling. How does this reaffirmation speak to God's grace and sovereignty in our faith journeys? (John 21:15-19)

8. Share an area where you feel inadequate or unqualified for God's calling. How can Peter's experience encourage you to trust God's provision and sufficiency? Pastor Ryan stated, "God doesn't call the qualified; he qualifies those he calls." How has that been true in your own life? 

*As you conclude, take a moment to pray together, thanking God for His faithfulness and asking for His guidance as we seek to follow Him wholeheartedly despite our imperfections.

 *Also, take a minute to talk about who is inviting who to Good Friday and Easter services and pray for them as needed.